Physical Education Teacher Education K-12
- Overview
- Careers
- New Freshmen
- New Transfer
- Illinois State Students
Illinois State’s Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program is nationally accredited. It has a long history of preparing outstanding educators for K-12 schools. After graduation, students are qualified to apply for Illinois certification. They are also eligible to teach in public and private schools.
Physical education teachers improve students’ health and teach the importance of staying active. They make lesson plans and organize physical activities that are inclusive for students with a range of abilities.
Why Study Physical Education Teacher Education K-12?
Being a physical educator is a rewarding and fun career. After sitting a majority of the day in a classroom, P.E. is a time students can be active and get moving. Physical educators make an impact on students’ lives by teaching them healthy habits that will stay with them for a lifetime.
Earning a degree from the Illinois State PETE program gives graduates the option to choose what age they want to teach. Certification qualifies graduates to teach physical education in elementary schools, high schools, or community college.
Related Skills
- Interested in health issues and teaching healthy lifestyles
- Interest in educating the public
- Good knowledge of human body mechanics
- Strong oral and communication skills
- Knowledgeable about sports
- Team member
- Good leadership skills
- Interested in physical activities
- Adaptive to new ideas
- Flexible
Being Successful in the Field
- A second teaching area is recommended in a minor or endorsement content area
- Obtain desired teaching certifications for either grades 6-12 or K-12
Related Fields
- Athletic Coach
- Athletic Director
- Intramural Sports Director
- Physical Education Teacher
Career Industry Liaison
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olanna Pullen | 223 Bone Student Center | olpulle@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2200 |
Internship Coordinator
| Name | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| Caryn Putra | clputra@IllinoisState.edu | 309-438-8661 |
Applying to Illinois State
Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!
Applying to Illinois State
Applying by our priority deadline is encouraged for best consideration for your academic program and for scholarships. Start your application today!
Minimum GPA
2.50
Middle 50% GPA
2.85 - 3.40
Required Courses
None
Recommended Courses
It takes three years at Illinois State University to complete this degree. Students should transfer after one year at the community college.
To find the course equivalencies at an Illinois community college, please review our Course Articulation Guides.
- Fundamentals of Physics (PHY 105) or College Physics (PHY 108)
- Human Physiology and Anatomy I (BSC 181 or KNR 181)
- Human Physiology and Anatomy II (BSC 182 or KNR 182)
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Megan Taylor | McCormick Hall 250 | mltayl3@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-5782 | Last Names A-D, H-M |
| Daphyne Walker | McCormick Hall 250 | dlwalke@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-5782 | Last Names E-G, N-Z |
Minimum GPA
2.50
Middle 50% GPA
2.85 - 3.40
Application Period
Applications are always available.
Application Information
Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Megan Taylor | McCormick Hall 250 | mltayl3@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-5782 | Last Names A-D, H-M |
| Daphyne Walker | McCormick Hall 250 | dlwalke@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-5782 | Last Names E-G, N-Z |